- Grade Level: 5 – 9
- Duration: 1 -2 Class Periods
Introduction:
The World Of Murdoch
Lesson Overview
With almost two decades of television history archived, Murdoch Mysteries is indeed a Canadian treasure. Each episode brings another aspect of Canadian history to life. Over time we are introduced to Nicolas Tesla, Mark Twain, Helen Keller, Thomas Edison, Clara Brett Martin, a young Agnes Macphail and of course Prime Ministers and Presidents. We learn about the birth of ragtime, women’s suffragette movement, home children, hockey, basketball, inventions and medicine and the many “everyday” people who braved Canadian winters (and summers) to call Canada home.
Each Murdoch Mysteries episode introduces us to the people, ideas, science and society of Canada’s past, all carefully crafted within a murder mystery. Through wonderful (and sometimes flawed) characters and brilliantly crafted storytelling, MM helps us recognize that history is made up of people, just like us. Through these lessons, we hope students will both learn from and be in awe of our amazing Canadian history and all that lead us to today.
To help students understand the time period in which Murdoch is set, consider first exploring the Victorian and Edwardian eras before learning more about Murdoch Mysteries.
Note: Murdoch Mysteries is considered a family show, however, it deals with murder as do some of the lesson activities. Consider previewing episodes to ensure you are able to address any questions or concerns.